Euro NymphsSquirracell - Duracell Variation
A variation of the Duracell nymph featuring a sparse squirrel collar that eliminates the need for perfect CDC pieces. Designed by Cheech in November 2018, this pattern combines the proven Duracell body with the visual appeal of a red Coq de Leon tail, similar to the Red Dart pattern. The squirrel collar technique adds movement and breathing action while maintaining a slim euro-nymph profile.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
Developed by Cheech as part of the Whiting CDL Versa Pack introduction, this pattern demonstrates an innovative approach to collar techniques in euro-nymph tying. The sparse squirrel collar provides excellent movement in the water and is more forgiving than CDC for beginning tiers. The red tail adds a hot spot element that has proven effective in competition settings and clear water conditions. This fly can be tied in various color combinations to match local preferences.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: TMC 403BLJ - 14 (or Fulling Mill 5045 Jig Force Barbless Hook - 14, or Firehole Sticks 516 Jig Hook - 14)
Bead: Firehole Stones Plated Slotted Tungsten Beads - Sterling Silver - 3.5mm (9/64") (or Fulling Mill Slotted Tungsten Beads - 3.2mm - Silver)
Thread: UTC Ultrathread 70 Denier - Red
Tail: Whiting Coq De Leon Euro Nymph Tailing Pack - Pardo Dyed Red (or UV2 Coq de Leon Perdigon Fire Tail Feathers - Fl. Flame)
Body: Ice Dub - UV Brown (or Hends UV Ice Dubbing - Dark Brown)
Collar: Natural Furs Dubbing - Pine Squirrel (or SLF Spikey Squirrel Dubbing - Natural Fox)
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round in tailwaters and freestone streams, particularly during spring and fall mayfly hatches when trout are feeding aggressively on nymphs. Most productive during March through November in temperate climates, and winter months in mild weather regions.
Presentation
Fish using tight-line euro nymphing techniques with a high-stick presentation. Cast upstream and maintain contact with the fly throughout the drift. The tungsten bead gets the fly down quickly into the feeding zone. Short line nymphing works well in pocket water and runs.
When to Use
Best during active mayfly nymph feeding periods before emergences. Effective as a searching pattern in moving water when no visible hatch is present. The red tail and UV dubbing provide visibility in off-color water or low light conditions. Excellent choice for technical presentations in competition settings.
Water Type
Designed specifically for moving water environments including riffles, runs, and pocket water of freestone streams. Works exceptionally well in tailwaters and spring creeks where trout are selective. The slim profile is ideal for fishing faster currents and deeper runs.
Rigging Suggestions
Use as the point fly in a two-fly euro nymphing rig with a lighter pattern as the dropper. Fish on 9-12 foot leader with 4X or 5X fluorocarbon tippet. The slotted bead works well with European-style leaders. No additional weight is typically needed due to the tungsten bead, but adjust based on water depth and current speed.
Visibility & Floatation
Sinks quickly with the 3.5mm tungsten bead, reaching depths of 3-5 feet efficiently. The UV brown dubbing creates subtle flash that attracts attention without spooking selective trout. The red tail provides a hot spot that is highly visible to fish. The squirrel collar creates natural movement and breathing action in the current. Slim profile cuts through fast water with minimal resistance.
